Kenya’s Maasai Mara–Animals & Tribal Culture

Perhaps two of the most famous safari locations in Africa are the adjacent Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya. During approximately August through September, columns with millions of Wildebeests and Zebras migrate back and forth between the parks, foraging for the tastiest grasses. The Walleighs had observed this migration when they visited both parks during their 1997 trip to East Africa. Though their family and friends visiting in October 2007 did not witness this migration, no one was disappointed. They saw all of the Big Five—Cape Buffalos, Elephants, Rhinos, Lions and Leopards—as well as the three Cheetah brothers who hunt together and of course many ungulates, birds, and other typical safari animals.

In addition, they visited a Maasai village to learn how these cattle-herding nomads live today, remaining true to their tribal

heritage while accommodating the need to educate their children. One of the highlights for their son was bartering several of his t-shirts plus an electronic game for a Maasai hunting knife and typical, red plaid, woolen shawl that Maasai men traditionally wear. Both parties were happy with their prizes.

Success Stories

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